Stranger. I was quite devoted to it, but now that I am an old maid I have no sympathy with anything under fifty years of age.
Madge (aside). That's what Bess says about our prospective step-mother.
[Enter Salesman with draperies.]
Stranger. Thank you. Yes, we have finished our shopping in this department. (To girls.) I must say good-by to you, as you probably wish to purchase bedroom furniture, and I will first look after my parlor.
Madge. I am so sorry we cannot go on as we have begun. We shall miss having you to advise and consult with.
Bess. You have been so very kind to help us.
Stranger. Policy, my dear—mere policy.
Bess (aside). How strange! She quotes my very words. (To her.) I will not believe there was a scrap of policy about it.
Madge. Nor I. You were simply lovely to two ignorant girls who thought they knew everything.